Many players experience Little Nightmares III getting stuck on the loading screen, preventing them from entering the game world. This issue can be frustrating, especially after waiting several minutes for the game to load.
Typically, this problem is caused by corrupted game files, outdated drivers, software conflicts, or insufficient system resources. In this guide, we’ll provide step-by-step solutions to fix the loading screen issue on Windows 10 and 11.
Common Causes of Loading Screen Issues
Before applying fixes, understanding the causes helps troubleshoot effectively:
- Corrupted or missing game files
- Outdated graphics or system drivers
- Conflicting background applications
- Insufficient RAM or CPU resources
- Slow hard drive or SSD issues
- Antivirus or firewall blocking game processes
🛠️ Fix 1: Update Graphics Drivers
Outdated GPU drivers often cause the game to freeze during loading.
Steps:
- Identify your graphics card (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel).
- Visit the official driver website:
- NVIDIA: NVIDIA Driver Downloads
- AMD: AMD Drivers
- Intel: Intel Graphics Drivers
- Download and install the latest driver.
- Restart your PC and relaunch the game.
✅ Ensures your GPU is fully compatible with the latest game updates.
🛠️ Fix 2: Verify Game Files
Corrupted or missing files can cause the game to freeze.
Steps (Steam Example):
- Open Steam Library → Right-click Little Nightmares III → Properties.
- Go to Local Files → Verify integrity of game files.
- Wait for the process to complete.
- Relaunch the game.
✅ Restores missing or corrupted files that may be blocking loading.
🛠️ Fix 3: Close Background Applications
Background apps can use resources and cause loading issues.
Steps:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc → Task Manager.
- End tasks for apps like Discord overlay, browsers, MSI Afterburner, or streaming software.
- Restart the game.
✅ Frees system resources for smoother game loading.
🛠️ Fix 4: Run the Game as Administrator
Sometimes permissions prevent the game from accessing necessary files.
Steps:
- Navigate to the installation folder → Right-click LittleNightmares3.exe → Properties.
- Go to Compatibility → Check Run this program as administrator.
- Apply changes and launch the game.
✅ Gives the game full access to system resources and files.
🛠️ Fix 5: Update Windows and DirectX
Outdated system files can prevent the game from loading correctly.
Steps:
- Press Windows + I → Update & Security → Windows Update → Check for Updates.
- Download and install any pending updates.
- Install the latest DirectX Runtime from Microsoft’s official site.
- Restart your PC and launch the game.
✅ Ensures maximum compatibility and stability.
🛠️ Fix 6: Disable Fullscreen Optimizations
Windows’ fullscreen optimizations can interfere with loading.
Steps:
- Navigate to the game folder → Right-click LittleNightmares3.exe → Properties.
- Go to Compatibility → Check Disable fullscreen optimizations.
- Apply and restart the game.
✅ Provides a smoother launch without freezing at startup.
🛠️ Fix 7: Check Storage and RAM Usage
Insufficient resources can halt game loading.
Steps:
- Ensure your PC meets or exceeds recommended requirements.
- Free up disk space on the drive where the game is installed.
- Close resource-heavy apps to free RAM.
- Restart the game.
✅ Prevents the game from stalling due to low system resources.
🛠️ Fix 8: Reinstall the Game
If all else fails, a fresh installation can solve persistent loading issues.
Steps:
- Uninstall Little Nightmares III.
- Delete leftover folders from:
C:\Users\<YourName>\AppData\Local\LittleNightmares3 - Reinstall the game on an SSD if possible.
- Launch and test.
✅ Removes corrupted files and ensures a clean installation for proper loading.
Additional Tips
- Keep GPU drivers and Windows up to date.
- Avoid using USB devices that may conflict with the game.
- Temporarily disable antivirus or firewall to test game launch.
- Install the game on an SSD for faster loading times.
FAQs
Q1: Why is Little Nightmares III stuck on the loading screen?
A1: Usually due to corrupted game files, outdated drivers, or insufficient system resources.
Q2: Can background apps cause loading freezes?
A2: Yes. Resource-heavy apps can prevent the game from loading properly.
Q3: Will reinstalling the game help?
A3: Yes. A fresh installation removes corrupted files and ensures smooth launching.
Q4: Does an SSD make a difference?
A4: Absolutely. SSDs reduce loading times and minimize freeze issues.
Q5: Should I update DirectX for this error?
A5: Yes. Missing or outdated DirectX can prevent proper game initialization.
Conclusion
Little Nightmares III getting stuck on the loading screen is often caused by corrupted files, outdated drivers, or insufficient system resources. By verifying files, updating drivers, disabling background apps, and reinstalling if necessary, you can fix the issue and enter the eerie world of Little Nightmares III smoothly.
🎮 Follow these steps and enjoy the game without being stuck on the loading screen!
